Bystander killed in Oxnard police shooting

A bystander was shot to death in the crossfire of a shootout between Oxnard police officers and three suspects over the weekend. It's yet to be determined who shot him.

A memorial of candles and cards marks the spot in the 100 block of North Garfield Avenue, where 21-year-old Alfonso Limon was shot and killed.

"It's just unfair when someone innocent dies," said Yoeann Sandoval, who was Limon's classmate at nearby Pacifica High School.

"He was a good guy. He was into school, trying to get his life straight," she said. "He was a good friend ... I always saw him walking around school with a smile."

Authorities say they tried to pull over three suspects Saturday night near Second Street and Grant Avenue, but they sped off, and a short chase ensued. Officers say one suspect surrendered, but two of the men ran from the car and fired at them. Police returned fire, killing one suspect, 24-year-old Jose Zepeda of Oxnard, and injuring another. Ventura County court records show Zepeda was convicted for residential burglary in 2006.

According to Oxnard police, Limon was jogging in the area at the time and was hit in the gun battle. Who fired the shot that killed Limon is still under investigation.

"The violent behavior of these suspects in this incident created and resulted in a tragedy and a tragic death of Mr. Limon," said Oxnard Police Chief Jeri Williams during a news conference on Tuesday. "The suspects, keep in mind, were in control of the situation, and our officers were responding to those threats."

Williams said she has reached out to Limon's mother, but she did not want to talk to her at this time. Limon's family also did not want to talk to media.

In a written statement, their attorney said,"The family is devastated by the loss of their son and brother. They are mourning together. They are supporting each other through this difficult time. There are questions they would like answered. At this point we are eagerly awaiting for the Ventura County Sheriff's investigation to be completed. At the present time, we are conducting our own independent investigation as to what occurred."

The Ventura County Sheriff's Department is the lead agency in the shooting probe.